Propagation by Cane (Stem) Cuttings

Some houseplants that produce thick, erect stems such as Cordyline, Dracaena and Dieffenbachia can be used to take Cane (or Stem) Cuttings.

These cuttings are usually taken when the stem has grown long and straggly and lost most of its bottom leaves and no longer looks attractive.

Method -

Cut the stem from the plant (just above a leaf node if you wish to keep using the original stem).

Using a clean sharp knife, cut off a piece of stem at least 10 inches 25cm) long.

Cut the stem into 2 - 3 inch (5 - 7.5cm) sections, each containing at least 1 node. Ensure that you remember which end was originally the top and which was the bottom. The easiest way of doing this is to make the cuts towards the bottom end of the stem horizontally across the stem and the cuts at the top end with a diagonal cut. Using this method will stop any confusion as to which end is which.

Lay the cut piece of stem horizontally in a tray or large pot of compost (Sphagnum Moss can be used if desired). Alternatively, they can be planted upright. If planting horizontally on the surface of the compost, ensure that the leaf buds on the nodes point upwards. If planting upright, make sure that you plant the correct way up, i.e. The original top of the stem towards the top (this is where the cutting method is useful).

Keep the cuttings in a humid place out of direct sunlight. A propagator or polythene bag can be used if required.

The stems will form new plantlets after several weeks which can be potted up.